Breast Lift Overview
A breast lift consists of elevating sagging breasts, reshaping the breasts and placing the areola-nipple complex in a higher position. Incisions are made following the natural contours of the breast and around the areola. The type of incision is dependent upon the amount of excess skin that needs to be removed. and Excess skin from the underside of the breast is removed through horizontal incisions. The nipple is then repositioned and the remaining patches of skin are regrouped to reshape the breast. A breast lift may be combined with the use of implants.
Incision Patterns
A breast lift can be achieved through a variety of incision patterns. Three of the more common incision patterns include: anchor, lollipop and donut. An anchor incision goes around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease as well as horizontally along the breast crease. A lollipop incision goes around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease. A donut incision simply goes around the areola. The appropriate technique for you will be determined based upon: your breast size and shape; the size and position of your areolas; the degree of breast sagging; as well as the amount of excess skin to be removed and the quality of skin elasticity. Depending upon the breasts’ response to and recovery from the initial surgery, it is common to perform a touch-up procedure to reposition tissue and to strengthen the tautness of the skin.
Anesthesia
Anesthesia may be general, regional (spinal), and/or intravenous sedation in combination with local anesthesia in the area being treated.
Breast Lift Surgery Duration
The Breast Lift procedure takes place over an average period of 90-120 minutes. If necessary, this period may be extended. However, the surgical procedure time should not be confused with the amount of time the patient will be in the operating room. That amount of time will also include the administering of anesthesia and postoperative recovery.
Hospitalization Period
Under normal circumstances, the hospitalization period is approximately 1 day.
Postoperative Care
Wear the post-op bra 24/7 for 30 days following surgery. Strenuous activity, exercise and lifting of objects over 5 lbs should be avoided for a month. Showering is allowed 48 hours after the procedure. No tub soaking, entering a swimming pool, hot tub, etc. while drains are in place and until your doctor authorizes. The scars are permanent and will lighten over time. Remember that your body needs to heal scar tissue, and that this process takes approximately 6 months. Request an online evaluation today!
